Gutenberg Festival at WBMPA

The Gutenberg Festival sounds intriguing! The West Bengal Master Printers Association (WBMPA) organized the celebration, to remember the Johannes Gutenberg's invention of the movable-type and the printing press, to honour his monumental contribution to the spread of knowledge and the proliferation of printing technology. The Gutenberg Festival is likely a celebration or event honouring the inventor of printing press and a key figure in the development of printing technology in Europe during the 15th century.

The festival featured lectures, discussion and other activities centred around Gutenberg's contributions to printing and their impact on communication, literacy, and the spread of knowledge. This festival was a tribute to Gutenberg's legacy and the profound influence his invention had on human history.

Welcoming the audience Tarun Kr. Ganguly, President WBMPA said, it is my great pleasure to welcome you all to the Gutenberg Festival, a celebration of innovation, creativity, and the enduring power of the written word. As we gather here today, we pay tribute to Johannes Gutenberg, the inventor of the printing press, whose revolutionary invention transformed the way knowledge was disseminated and paved the way for the modern age of literacy and enlightenment.

Tunir Deb, Hon Treasurer WBMPA said, the Gutenberg Festival is not merely a commemoration of the past, but a testament to the enduring relevance of Gutenberg's legacy in our rapidly evolving digital age. In an era dominated by screens and pixels, it is more important than ever to reaffirm the value of the printed word and the vital role that books and literature play in our lives.

Arijit Dutta, Hon Secretary said, this festival is a celebration of the written word in all its forms, from the printed page to the digital realm. It is a platform for authors, publishers, and readers to come together, to exchange ideas, and to celebrate the rich diversity of human expression.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Kamal Mohan Chopra endorsed the contributions of Gutenberg and said that printing is the biggest invention of mankind till date and Gutenberg, being the father of modern printing was decorated with the honours of ‘Man of Millennium’. As we embark on this journey of exploration and discovery, let us remember the words of Gutenberg himself: "The printed word is the greatest gift of mankind, and it is our responsibility to cherish it, to protect it, and to ensure that it continues to inspire and enlighten future generations."

Vinod Jain highlighted the contributions of Johannes Gutenberg and said that his printing press facilitated the rapid and widespread dissemination of knowledge, ideas, and information. It played a crucial role in the spread of the Renaissance, the Reformation, and the Scientific Revolution by making texts more accessible to a broader audience, including scholars, clergy, and the emerging middle class.

In his address, Sandip Kr Sanyal said, first and foremost, I would like to express our deepest appreciation to our esteemed guest, Prof. Kamal Mohan Chopra for taking the time to join us and share their valuable insights. Your presence has truly enriched our event. He appreciated the presence of printers in the busy (business) day. Your dedication, hard work, and enthusiasm have been the driving force behind today's event, and we are immensely grateful for your commitment. The event concluded with musical performance by the renowned personality, Sugata Roy Palodhi.